Psychoneuroimmunology Basics Flashcards

What does the term 'psychosomatic' mean in a modern PNI framework, and how should a holistic coach reframe it?

Answer: The bidirectional influence of psychological states on physical (somatic) processes via documented biological pathways

In PNI, psychosomatic refers to well-documented bidirectional mind-body interactions through neuro-immune-endocrine pathways, not imaginary symptoms.

Which phase of the general adaptation syndrome (GAS), described by Hans Selye, is most associated with immune depletion and disease vulnerability?

Answer: Exhaustion stage

The exhaustion stage occurs when adaptive resources are depleted after prolonged stress, leading to immune suppression, adrenal fatigue, and increased disease susceptibility.

In PNI research, what is the significance of 'conditioned immune responses' demonstrated by Ader and Cohen?

Answer: Immune cells can learn to respond to previously neutral stimuli paired with immunosuppressive drugs

Ader and Cohen showed that pairing saccharin with cyclophosphamide led to immune suppression upon subsequent saccharin exposure alone, proving classical conditioning of immune responses.

How does chronic sleep deprivation affect immune function according to PNI research?

Answer: It elevates pro-inflammatory cytokines, reduces vaccine antibody responses, and increases infection susceptibility

Chronic sleep deprivation elevates IL-6 and TNF-α, impairs vaccine responses, and increases susceptibility to rhinovirus, as demonstrated by Cohen's sleep-challenge studies.

A client practices gratitude journaling daily. Which PNI-relevant outcome has research linked to regular gratitude practices?

Answer: Reduced inflammatory biomarkers and improved sleep quality

Gratitude practices have been linked to reduced IL-6 and CRP levels, improved sleep, and lower HPA axis reactivity in multiple studies.

What is 'neuroplasticity-immune crosstalk' and why is it relevant to coaching clients recovering from trauma?

Answer: Immune cells remodel synapses, and chronic inflammation impairs hippocampal neurogenesis needed for emotional regulation and recovery

Microglia and pro-inflammatory cytokines can inhibit hippocampal neurogenesis, while trauma-informed coaching practices that reduce inflammation support neural recovery and resilience.

Which PNI concept explains why a positive placebo effect can produce measurable immunological changes, not just subjective relief?

Answer: Conditioned immune modulation and expectancy-driven neuroendocrine signaling

Placebo effects engage expectancy and conditioning pathways that alter opioid, dopamine, and cortisol signaling, producing objective immunological changes beyond mere perception.